That shadow on the Lagoon
A young ichthyologist investigates his sister's suicide in Venice's dark alleys.
Bruno Benedetto Bartoletti’s That Shadow on the Lagoon places Markus Tonebaker, a recent Portsmouth University ichthyology graduate, in Venice following his sister Marta’s mysterious suicide. He moves to Italy for a specialization course on fish farms in Padua before her death disrupts his life. Another loss forces him to investigate the city’s hidden past. The narrative explores ancient mysteries within Venice’s dark alleys and moonlit calli. The protagonist seeks truth in a city known for its beauty but also for centuries of intrigues, plots, and unsolved crimes. Bartoletti draws on the historical reputation of the lagoon city as a site where nothing appears as it seems and every corner may conceal a secret. This work suits readers interested in gothic atmosphere and supernatural fiction set against real-world geography. It appeals to those who enjoy character-driven investigations into historical secrets. Readers seeking fast-paced action or non-fiction historical analysis may find the slow, atmospheric pacing less engaging. The story relies on the tension between the protagonist’s scientific background and the irrational nature of the crimes he encounters.
The novel is set in Venice, Italy, a city famous for its beauty, waterways, and history of unsolved crimes. It draws on the lagoon city's reputation for hiding secrets among its bridges and alleys. The protagonist’s background links Portsmouth, England, to Padua, Italy.
📝 Description: That shadow on the Lagoon
💎 Our verdict on That shadow on the Lagoon
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
This book is ideal for readers who appreciate slow-burning, atmospheric gothic horror over fast-paced action. Those fascinated by the tension between scientific rationality and irrational supernatural events will find Markus Tonebaker’s journey compelling. The narrative appeals to individuals interested in character-driven investigations into historical secrets rather than non-fiction analysis. If you enjoy stories set against the backdrop of Venice’s dark alleys and moonlit calli, this work offers a deep dive into a city where nothing appears as it seems. It is suited for those who value mood and mystery over plot speed.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
Bartoletti effectively utilizes Venice’s dual nature—beauty and deception—to create a gripping gothic atmosphere. The protagonist’s scientific background provides a unique lens for investigating the irrational crimes he encounters, adding intellectual depth to the supernatural elements. While readers seeking rapid action may find the pacing too slow, those who enjoy atmospheric tension and historical mystery will be thoroughly engaged. The book succeeds in blending real-world geography with ancient secrets, offering a compelling exploration of loss and truth in a city defined by its hidden past.
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